ARBITRIUM

(Latin)

Decision, Will, Intrusion, Control


CHAPTER 2: A WALK TO REMEMBER

And he laughed. And laughed. And laughed.

Behind him, the clock stuck 12 and rang out 12 times.


June 24, Friday

"... It's not like you care about Crookshanks, Ronald."

"Honestly woman, I just want to buy him a treat. What's wrong with that? I have been accusing the poor guy the whole time."

"Of course you would apologize to him, but not to me. You are ..."

Harry smiled at yet another fight between his friends, shaking his head at half amusement, half exasperation. Though after last night, he needed some normalcy. Madam Pomphrey had discharged them about 15 minutes ago. They were now on the way to the Great Hall as Ron didn't want to miss a single serving of food from the Great Hall.

Hermione updated Ron about the time turner on the way. Which was the initial topic of their fight? The topic of their fight changed from time travelling to Scabbers and then from Scabbers to Crookshanks. More like Harry sneaking to Honeydukes. But he had already decided that he won't go this weekend. After that incident with Malfoy and Snape, and without the map, it was only an engraved invite for trouble, which he had enough for this year. At that Hermione beamed, Ron huffed and Ginny smiled encouragingly in the background.

He sighed. Looking at his right towards his other companion, Ginny, who was shocked at the length and intensity of the fight between her brother and Hermione. Of course, she had never been 'round us to experience it.

A flash of guilt hit him. They have never tried to include her with them. Hell, Ron had shooed her away so many times and he didn't stop him. He should have, especially after the Chambers. And yet she risked her life to free his godfather. She is so brave and nice and...

He remembered the conversation from last night.


Ginny turned to face Harry while he did the same and grinned at each other.

"Want to tell me the real story"

"Sure"

Making sure no one was paying attention to them, she asked, "First tell me. Did you make it in time? Well of course you did. Silly me. How is Sirius? What happened after I left? Where did he go? Where will he stay? No one suspects anything, do they? "

Before she could ramble more questions, Harry cut her off, "Yes, he's fine. I don't know where he went or where he will stay. Yes, we made it in time and no one suspects anything." He broke off for a moment, reconsidering and added, "Except Snape. But no one believes him."

"Oh! Thank Merlin." she exclaimed, drowning the hot chocolate. He was glad that she had saved him from eating anymore chocolate. She placed the mug she emptied in less than ten seconds on the bedside table and picked up another bar of chocolate while look at him eagerly. He wondered if she's that hungry or if she has a chocolate fetish. When he didn't say anything, she burst out, "Come on; Give me some details, I want to know everything."

"What about you? How did you end up in the Hospital wing? Are you going to answer my questions?". Honestly, it didn't matter that much, it was fun to see her riled up. But he was also curious and a bit worried. He hoped she didn't fell into danger because of him.

"Yeah, but I asked first. Come on, spill"

"Okay, when you left, and in perfect timing I might add, I found Hermione on the way back. She came looking for me. Then, we rode Buckbeak to the Astronomy Tower and got Sirius out. He took Buckbeak and left. He said I am my father's son." Harry's eyes glistened with tears at the memory. It felt really nice to hear. Ginny smiled softly, knowing how much precious that memory was. It was clear from the look of happiness and pride shining in his face. She hoped that it would be enough to make Harry forget of asking her about her 'accident'. Well it didn't work.

"So, what happened with you? Don't think, I will forget about it." Sighing, she wondered how easily he read her.

"I flew to my dorm, which luckily was empty. I knew he spell won't hold long, so I kept him in my bed near my wand. He, as I thought, stole it as soon as he got loose and tried to curse me but I screamed and McGonagall came. He held me hostage but forgot a silly little thing; the alarm in the girl's staircase."

"What alarm", Harry interrupted.

"It's a charm on the girl's stairs. Boys are not allowing in the girl's side, so if they try to enter, a loud alarm rings up and the staircase turns into a slide. I am surprised you don't know that. That's what happened. We slipped through the slide; I got hit in the head and fainted. That's all I know."

"You let a murderer have your wand. Are you crazy?" He exclaimed, sitting up, but calmed before he got anyone's attention. Harry didn't know if he should be proud of her courage or angry at her stupidity. Unfortunately, he chose the latter.

"What else would I have done? Gone to Professors, saying that my brother's pet rat is actually a human who is considered dead by the world." she whisper-snapped at him. She didn't mean to but she hated it when people treated her like a child who didn't know anything.

"Sorry. I just feel guilty because you got hurt because of me. If I weren't for me…"

"WOW! Hold that thought right now." Ginny cut him off before he could wallow in his guilt. "It's not your fault. It's that rat's fault. You were not the one who tried to curse me. Stop justifying his actions."

Now Harry got slightly angry, "I am not justifying him." He struggled to keep his voice calm.

"Well if you take the guilt and responsibility of his actions, it is like defending him. It was his fault and he is the only one guilty here." she concluded, feeling a bit proud that she stopped his brooding.

Harry, on the other hand, was thinking hard. It made sense. Why should he feel responsible or what he did? It was only and only Pettigrew's fault. He took a deep breath, feeling lighter. Turning towards Ginny, he smiled at her to show he wasn't mad anymore and simply said "Thank you, Ginny, for everything. I don't know what I have done to get such great friends but I'm glad."

She understood his words and their meaning underneath, "Your welcome, Harry. Good night."

"Good night", with that he lay back and slept peacefully with a smile in his face.


Suddenly she looked up at him and Harry realized that he was looking at her for straight 2 minutes. He blushed and dropped her gaze trying to hide his embarrassment, finally understanding how she felt the summer before his second year.

Ginny, on the other hand, couldn't help but gape open mouthed at the argument between his brother and his best-friend. She had have heard that the fights between Ron and Hermione are legendary, but never saw it herself. Hell, she didn't see them fight in Leaky Cauldron last summer. Honestly, it wasn't that hard to understand why they fought like this. It might be because of the mutual attraction between the two, even though they had virtually nothing in common, polar opposites, that's what they are. Also the fact that neither can hold a fair and casual conversation was another factor. With lack of common interest and conversation topics, along with Ron's rude and tactlessness and Hermione's bossy and perfectionist attitude; the only conversation they could hold was a fight, over nothing.

Still it was endearing as well as frustrating to see it. Poor Harry; How does he manage this and his yearly life-threatening adventure? Speaking of Harry, he was too quiet. Looking over she saw him staring at her, his eyes shining with admiration and interest.

Ginny was over her silly and stupid crush on the Wizarding hero that was the Boy-Who-Lived, after her first year. After a wise decision from her head, Ginny decided to just observe Harry and found that he was like any other guy on school. But she was too embarrassed about her past behavior to even talk, apologize or thank him. Though out of her crush, she could not deny the attraction she felt for her brother's modest, humble, brave and polite friend.

Catching her eye, Harry dropped his eyes and she felt teeny-tiny flicker of disappointment. Ginny saw him blush and embarrassment and tried to distract him.

"Are they always like this? I mean, always."

"You have no idea". Success, Harry's smiling. Ginny's grin widened.

"I wonder they will notice if they walked past the way to the Entrance Hall. I am surprised they never get lost in the castle"

"They know the place well enough. Trust me; it's not the first time. Once I left the common room while they were arguing and returned about 20 minutes later, they were still at it and didn't even notice my departure. But they have enough experience to get to the Great Hall while fighting."

The four entered the Hall and took seats beside the twins. The hall was full of whispers and chattering. Ron and Hermione, still arguing, sat beside the twins and were now fighting about the Firebolt; while Harry and Ginny sat beside Neville who was sitting opposite to the twins.

Dumbledore stood up, for his announcement.

"Good Morning. As I am aware the incident of last night has been circulated to the entire school, though there were some errors. I may have heard someone say that a vampire sneaked inside the castle to drink blood from the most beautiful girl of Hogwarts." While saying this, he smiled at a sixth-year Gryffindor who blushed deep.

"I should assure you, there is no such dangerous creature roaming around the Gryffindor Common Room, or any other part of the castle. There, however, was a convict caught attacking a student and Professor McGonagall, with the aid of entire Gryffindor House, he was caught and is now at the Ministry of Magic. For the bravery and courage, I award Gryffindor house 200 points." The whole table cheered, it certainly secured the House Cup. As the cheering silenced, Dumbledore continued.

"The man caught was none other than, Peter Pettigrew who faked his death and framed innocent Sirius Black for his crimes." The silence in the hall was deafening. Giving them no time to get out of the shock, he continued, "Pettigrew is now in custody of the Aurors and will be given a trial soon. On a sadder note, Professor Remus Lupin has submitted his resignation this morning. He is a great teacher and will be missed by all."

Harry didn't know what to say. Why would Professor Lupin leave? His eyes trailed towards the satisfied look on Snape's face and felt a red-hot rage, understanding why he would feel so satisfied after last night and Gryffindor winning 100 points. Ginny grabbed his robe covered arm under the table, her eyes wide. She had noticed that Harry was shaking slightly and his palms started to glow. He took a deep breath and tried to calm down wondering why were his palms glowing. Looking around, he confirmed no one noticed. Ginny kept a hold of his arm and squeezed it gently. Harry tried to ignore the slight tingling of butterflies in his stomach at her touch.

"On a happier note, the Dementors have been permanently removed from the school. And therefore, the trip to Hogsmeade has been preponed from Sunday to today. All third-years and older may leave for the village at 9'o clock. Have a Good Day ahead."

The food appeared and Harry took some toast. Ginny frowned and nudged him.

Harry just shook his head, not feeling hungry. Suddenly two scopes of scrambled egg, mashed potatoes and two sausages were on his plate next to the toasts. He looked at Ginny, who was munching on her eggs, hiding a smile. Harry narrowed his eyes, but got a glare in return. He cowered; her glare matched that of her mother. Sighing he finished his breakfast on plate and a glass full of pumpkin juice. Her eyes twinkled in approval. Harry tried to ignore the slight clamp in his stomach for eating more than his regular appetite. He had no idea how Ginny made him do it, but having a healthy meal felt good.

"So, Harry. What are you doing today? With Hogsmeade and all…" Ron trailed off, suggesting not-so-subtly sneaking into Hogsmeade again. But Harry shook his head.

"I don't know. I have some work to do. After all I am not allowed and there's no way to come." Hermione understood what Harry meant and elbowed Ron when he tried to open his mouth. Instead presented a question, "Why would he prepone Hogsmeade visit?"

"Maybe he wanted to distract the students from the unnecessary rumors." Harry suggested shrugging. Hermione's face turned into a calculated one as she nodded and considered his answer. During this, Ginny turned to the twins and asked, "Did any of you get my wand?"

The twins looked at each other and Fred (or George) answered "Sorry, Gin-bug."

"Your wand didn't survive"

"The stair-slide"

Ginny looked rather relieved than sad. Turning to Neville, who was at her other side she said "Neville, I couldn't say yesterday but thanks for your help. I would have failed Herbology without your help". Neville simply smiled and blushed. At Harry and twins' questioning glance, she explained, "Neville has been helping me for my Herbology, during the Hogsmeade visits, as he can't go. Honestly, he's the Merlin of Herbology." Poor Neville choked at his pumpkin juice and turned beet red as the others laughed. Harry was surprised to feel the unnatural burn of jealousy at the thought of Ginny spending time with Neville and hearing her praise him. He wondered if she was past her feeling for Harry and developed some for Neville instead. That thought brought an uncomfortable feeling in his chest, but he ignored it.

Ron and Hermione were ready to leave for the Common Room before going to Hogsmeade. Harry decided to stay for a while and asked them to leave without waiting (or worrying) for him. As they left, Ginny turned to Harry and asked.

"Want to see Hagrid. I am sure he might want someone to talk to after his loss." Her brown eyes twinkled mischievously.

For a moment, Harry was mesmerized. She was really beautiful. Yes, he had noticed girls, one of the being Cho Chang who was very pretty. But now, she appeared fake to him, pretty not beautiful. Ginny's beautiful. Her mischievous sparkling eyes, fiery red hair, her soft lips...

For the second time caught him. Cursing at his lack of tact and self-control, he mentally smacked himself but managed not to show his embarrassment again. Just as most of the Hall emptied, Harry and Ginny got out to the grounds. Walking towards the Hagrid's Hut, they saw a carriage by the gate and standing beside it was Professor Lupin with his luggage. Not liking what he was seeing Harry rushed towards him.

"Professor Lupin. Why is a carriage here? Are you leaving? But school doesn't end... Can't you wait till the end of terms? Why did you resign, anyway? No one knows about last night, right. Did Dumbledore say anything? Did Snape?" Harry kept on going. Remus was amused as well as touched at the young boy's constant questions. It still awed him how much Harry looked like James.

"Slow down, Harry. Breathe. It seems that Professor Snape has accidently slipped about my condition. It's almost good to see the Hogwarts Rumor Mill is as effective as it was at our time. Some things never change, I guess. By tomorrow, the parents will know and Dumbledore will be hounded by letters against my appointment. It is best that I resign by myself."

"But, you are the best Defense teacher we ever had." Harry said weakly, knowing nothing he will say change anything.

"It's okay! Harry. Also, our mutual friend may need some assistance soon. Speaking of that" Lupin opened the small bag in his hand and dug out three items. The Invisibility Cloak, The Marauder's Map and today's Daily Prophet. "Since I am no longer your teacher, it's safe to hand you these. I was hoping to see you before leaving. And read the first page on the paper."

Taking them, Harry looked into the paper-

PETER PETTIGREW ALIVE.

FIRST CLASS, ORDER OF MERLIN RECEIVER - A DEATH EATER

The highlight was large and bold. Beneath it was a picture of Sirius, the Minister, a younger Pettigrew and an unknown person, most likely some Ministry worker.

Before the dawn of this morning, the Ministry was at roar. The Minister of Magic visited Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, at a false alarm of the sighting of Sirius Black. Sirius Black is a convict, who escaped from Azkaban, about a year ago. Charged on the murder of Peter Pettigrew and causing an explosion resulting in death of 13 muggles. He was shipped to Azkaban without a trial under the orders of Bartemius Crouch.

Black was not found but another person was found attacking a student of Hogwarts, Ginevra Weasley, daughter of Ministry worker Arthur Weasley. The attacker was none other than the person believed to be dead, PETER PETTIGREW.

Headmaster Albus Dumbledore himself, in presence of Deputy Headmistress Minerva McGonagall and the Minister of Magic questioned Pettigrew under the strongest truth-potion, Veritaserum. The contents of the questioning are unknown but an hour later; Pettigrew was witnessed to be dragged away to the Ministry by Aurors.

It is confirmed that on the left hand of Peter Pettigrew there was the DARK MARK tattooed.

Later Madam Bones, the Head of Department of Magical Law Enforcement stated-"Nothing is confirmed. Unlike Sirius Black, Peter Pettigrew will be given a complete trial. If he is found guilty, he will be shipped to Azkaban and his Order of Merlin will be taken away. Given his statement, it will be decided that whether Pettigrew or Black is responsible for the betrayal of the Potters and the death of 13 muggles."

The trial is to be conducted on 30th of this month in front of the whole Wizengamot.

The Minister of Magic has refused to comment on the situation.

Barty Crouch, who had casted Black to Azkaban without any trial, is mysteriously absent from the Ministry during this whole fiasco.

Albus Dumbledore has refused to let any reporters question anyone from any student or teaching staff and has refused to comment himself.

Sirius Black, who was friends with the Potters and Pettigrew as well as godfather to Harry Potter, The boy who lived, is still out of sight. What this trial will mean to young Mr. Potter, who is now in the third year of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is unknown.

Further story... Pg. 2

Quidditch World Cup ... Pg. 2-3

The Dark Mark- a curse ... Pg. 4

Barty Crouch- Rise and fall ... Pg. 5

Is Hogwarts not safe enough ...Pg. 7

The Dark Night, 13 years ago ...Pg. 8

"Does... Does that mean Sirius will be free, Professor?" Harry croaked out, overwhelmed with emotion

"Hopefully; I have heard of Amelia Bones. She is strict but trustworthy. She will arrange a trial." Looking at the watch, Remus concluded, "And call me Remus, Harry. Or better, Moony. I should leave now. I need to give Sirius the good news. Take care of yourself, Harry. You are truly your father's son." He smiled at him and for the first time notice of his companion. His smile widened.

'Ah! Potters and redheads.'

"Goodbye Harry, Miss Weasley". With that, he climbed into the carriage and it started moving. Harry stood there waving till it was out of sight.

Ginny who was standing beside at some distance to give the pair some space, touched Harry on the shoulder in silent support. Harry wiped his eyes murmuring about the wind and dust. Finally facing Ginny, he smiled which she returned brightly. With a nod of head, he pointed towards their initial destination, Hagrid's Hut. The walk was silent but very comfortable. In the serene atmosphere, Harry quietly celebrated his godfather's freedom and Ginny enjoyed Harry's happiness.

Seeing the distinct gleam of happiness in his eyes and the slight bounce in his walk, she concluded one thing- Sirius Black is good for Harry. And heaven forbid anything to ruin it.


"Chunk! Chunk! Chunk!"

In the dungeons of the old castle of Hogwarts, a man was chopped some herbs furiously, taking out all of his anger on the leaves. He was at a blind rage. Reading the Prophet early morning has never been a curse before. Black was going to be freed. He spat at the ground at the thought. Some calm portion of his mind was happy that the real betrayer was caught.

"Chunk! Chunk! Chunk!"

He had spilled Lupin's secret to Malfoy who was more than happy to spread the news.

"Chunk! Chunk! Chunk!"

Another of them, out of here

But most of his mind was caught up with the fact that Black would be free and he had lost his chances of getting an Order of Merlin. He hoped after that people may forget his status as former Death Eater, but Black ruined it all. As always, that petty little group of James Potter has taken away his glory. Even if Black wasn't their secret keeper, he suggested the change. Where was the Gryffindor courage then? He was a wimp to back out the last minute. With Dark Lord and Pettigrew, he too was responsible. They were all responsible.

The knife slipped and cut the potion master's finger, but the man hardly noticed the blood dripping into the exotic herbs.

Then a quiet voice in his head said- 'Including me'.


Reaching the hut, Harry and Ginny were disappointed to see Hagrid absent. Now nothing left to do, Ginny suggested a walk by the lake. So they did. Walking by the lake, Ginny broke the silence. They could hear the carriages to Hogsmeade leave and wondered if Hagrid was celebrating in Hogsmeade.

"The view here is really beautiful in the dawn. It looks like the sun is coming out of the water."

"It sounds beautiful. But that is very early in morning, what do you do here?"

"I jog around the lake every morning. Couldn't do it today with being the Hospital Wing"

"Wow. I didn't know wizards were involved his physical activities like muggles"

"They don't, usually" She explained. "It was something Bill suggested last summer."


"Hey, Firefly" Bill came up behind her as she was packing, startling her. They have been in Egypt for a month visiting tombs and pyramids. The whole month she caught Bill staring at her and knew he will be talking to her soon.

'Looks like the time has come', she sighed.

"Hey Bill. What are you doing here?", she asked in a mock innocent voice, making her brothers chuckle.

"Brat; I know that you know why I am here. Come on, Charlie and I need to talk to you, as the rest are out for some last-time shopping stuff."

Ginny agreed and Charlie entered the room. The Weasley brothers sat on the side of the bed side-by-side and Ginny facing them on the other corner. There was an eerie silence in the room.

"Firefly, I won't ask you what happened last year or how do you feel. I know what happened and that you feel like crap. You aren't sleeping well, making a fake happy smile and silencing the bed with mum's wand so no one hears you scream from nightmares."

The last statement did shock Ginny. She has been very careful in doing the charms and borrowing the wand. After a moment of silence, she decided to be out with. "How do you know?"

"I am a curse breaker, kiddo" was the reply she got as if it explained everything. At her raised eyebrows he elaborated-"As a curse breaker we first use our instinct to identify magic. I felt the magic around your bed"

"Wait. How can you feel magic, that to something as small as a silencing charm?" Ginny was intrigued, while tugging on the pendant, Bill gave her on her birthday. It was already charmed with protective spells as Ginny could feel the magic on her skin.

"Everyone who has a magical core can feel magic. You just have to practice it. Like the way your wand felt when it accepted you" Charlie inserted.

"How would I know? I am still using Mum's Merlin-knows-which relative's wand." Well shocked both the men.

"What? You mean you didn't get a new wand. But Ron bought his, how come you didn't get it."

"No. Ron broke his old wand. Also I guess Mum is worried if grab a wand, I start doing Dark Magic"

"I am sure there's some misunderstanding, Ginny. Why would Mum think so?" Charlie asked, even if both he and Bill knew what she is on about. They wanted to hear her side of story.

She responded with a bitter laugh, now that the topic was open, it felt like a dam has been burst open. "You don't even know half of it. Before coming here, I heard her convincing Dad to home-school me, I am too young, too fragile. Huh! Fragile my... foot."

Charlie raised an eyebrow at the curse knowing what she was initially saying and exchanged a smirk with Bill. Boy or not, every Weasley has crude language.

"So, Mum wasn't much of a support I guess", Bill stated coming back to the topic.

"Yup. Dad is like never home. Ron is back to ignore his annoying sister, Percy is fawning over either his girlfriend or his Head Boy batch, the Twins are plotting to make a joke shop. And Mum, whole time she pretended like nothing happened. She talks to me like I am 5. I am not five, hell I am not even 12." She ended her rant with a slight quiver in her voice.

"Do you want to talk about it? You don't have to, but it will be better if you do" Bill asked hesitantly, not wanting to upset her any more.

Knowing she wouldn't chance like this to take out her frustrations, she poured out everything. Well almost everything. By the end she saw her brothers exchanging looks.

"So you broke through his possession." At her nod, Bill stared at the wall. "Show me your wand" He waved her wand once, a few dull sparks shot out. Charlie watched with interest and Ginny in confusion.

"Ginny. I am going say something very important so listen carefully. You know that there hasn't been a girl in Weasley clan in 7 generations, right. You know that seven is a very powerful number. Numbers are important even magically, you will learn that if you take Arithmancy in your third year. You are a powerful witch, Ginny. There is only one kind of wand for a wizard and one wizard for each wand. This wand is so old and used that it shouldn't even work anymore. For any person, any wand but their chosen is nothing more than a piece of wood. If you were still able to cast spell of even average strength using it, it means you are a powerful witch."

"What does the wand do then?" She finally interrupted. This was going way too deep and will be getting a head ache soon.

"Wands are used to help us center our magic, to give it a focus point. So, the point is I will try to talk to dad to get you, your own wand. But I don't think it will work. It would be better if practice doing magic as much as you can. Control it; don't let it go out of your hands."

"Also try some muggle physical exercises like jogging, stretching, jumping. It may help too."

"How would exercise help in doing magic?" Exercise was, obviously, an alien concept for the wizarding community.

"Ginny. Umm…you…Haven't you noticed you grew up since last month? You look more a year older."

"I do. I thought this growth sprout was normal, you know puberty and all."

"Yes, puberty is a factor but your growth is way faster. The growth in your body is mainly because of your magical growth and vice versa. That is why most of magical school starts teaching children during teenage."

"Is that why Mum feeds us so much?"

"Somewhat. But mainly she is just cracked" Charlie said, making them all laugh


"Wow that's pretty deep" Harry finally said. He felt intrigued by this information. Shouldn't teachers explain this to them? They teach how to do spells and charms but not the basis of magic.

"I felt the same way. So every morning I come here and do laps around the lake." Ginny was glad he took it seriously. She was afraid he might be bored of the story.

"Is that why you added twice of what I eat in my plate? You are becoming like Mrs. Weasley." Harry teased her.

"Are you saying it's a bad thing, Harry" Ginny teased him back, narrowing her eyes in fake anger. It worked as Harry looked alarmed and stammered an apology.

"I… I didn't…" He stopped his apology when he heard Ginny chuckle and elbowed her. After a seconds of lightness, she continued.

"Later, I searched about it as much as I could in the Library. There are many old books on Magic and the factors affecting, from the Restricted Section. There were many other such facts about magic. I haven't got time to read it much since I found during the Easter holidays."

"What do they say?" Harry asked her. Even if he knew he could just go and read the book in Library, but he wanted to hear from her. It would be faster and there was something in her way of explaining, that everything she says makes sense.

"Well, the chapter I first read was titled- Body Mind Magic. It said that not just body, but our mind also supports our magic. Our mind, our emotion, our intentions all of these are factors needed to do magic. These three are interdependent on each other. That's why after doing a strong spell or using magic for a long time, we get exhausted, tired. You get it?"

"Yeah. It sounds like something we subconsciously do. I didn't know there was actual theory on it. It actually explains many things. Like the Patronus charm, it is necessary to dwell on a strong positive emotion."

"And the accidental magic we do, we lose control of our magic when we are feeling some strong negative emotion like anger", Ginny said remembering the time she hexed her brothers and turned them green when they used to tease her.

"Or when we are scared" while Harry was thinking of 'Harry Hunting'.

"Maybe that's why Dumbledore is so unnaturally cheerful and calm all the time; to keep his magic in control."

"Do you think it applies to Neville?" At Ginny's raised eyebrows, he continued "If he is more confident around, he can do better magic than now or vice versa"

"It's possible. If he always nervous and shy, he may not have as much grasp in magic as others, which lowers his confidence even more."

Harry quieted, thinking about himself. Ginny saw a slight frown in his face and asked him about it.

"Oh its nothing. Maybe I am lean and small because my magic is not that strong, perhaps. I mean look at Ron..."

"Ron eats 4 times you do", Ginny snapped before he could continue. "Harry, please don't lower yourself because your horrible relatives don't feed you and yes I know about it. You eat less than a first year and yet you have perfected a charm of NEWTS level in less than 6 months. Yes, you are on the leaner side but still you can do some serious stuff. Have you imagined if eat in proper amount and work-out daily as Bill said, you will be stronger and more powerful and reach near your magical potential before you even graduate from Hogwarts."

"Magical potential? What's that?" Harry didn't want to think himself as almighty but could not help but wonder if it will work. With the constant life-threatening situations, he has been facing since his arrival in the Wizarding World, he might start taking this into consideration.

"The average strength of one's magical core is called Magical potential. Everyone falls under certain criteria on the basis of their magical potential. Some wizards use dark magic to attain their potential and even surpass it. But it is dark and very unstable. That book emphasized very strongly on this. Person doing it is most likely to overload their selves with magic and they lose their physical body into a mere state of energy."

"An incredibly smart mate you have got, Harry Potter", a voice rang from the woods behind them. Coming out of the shadows was a centaur, standing straight and proud but his eyes polite. "We meet again, Harry Potter".

"Firenze, it's nice to see you again." Harry greeted before turning to Ginny, who never saw a centaur before and was clutching his forearm in death-grip. "Calm down, Gin. Firenze is a friend."

Ginny trusted Harry and his judgment so her loosen but didn't withdraw it. Even though there was an air of peace and calm around the centaur but she can't trust anyone she didn't knew. Her 1st year taught her that.

"Worry not, young one. I wish no harm to you and your… friend." His voice was gentle and held some authority. "I was star gazing last night and quite shocked to see sudden shifts in the planetary motions. Venus was quite bright"

While Harry had heard centaurs talk before but it didn't confuse him any less than the first time. Ginny was staring at him as if he was talking in French, German and Latin at once, she has never been too fond of Astronomy. Seeing their faces, Firenze couldn't help but laugh.

"I apologize. I had no intentions to confuse both of you. Maybe it will help if recall what happened last night at the very same place you are standing right now."

Lost in each other's company, they forgot where they were walking to. Harry and Ginny looked at the surrounding and found themselves at the same place where they fainted last night and the golden glow surrounded them. They almost forgot about it. They looked at each other and then at Firenze, who was smiling in a knowing way.

"How do you know about it? Do you know what it was? Do you know what happened? But how, you weren't here, we didn't see anyone around here." Harry echoed the questions both of them had.

"I do not need to see to know, young Harry. It is a centaur's secret I must prevail. Though telling you what you need to know is the task the stars have assigned me. Let me tell you about the ancient times of magic; the era during which Hogwarts was being formed."

"During ancient times, people lived happily. There was no Ministry, no prejudice. Every magical being lived in alliance and peace each other. Time and greed destroyed those peaceful times. One who has heard of those times can only wish to live it. As time evolved the magical beings and non-magical ones were divided. Wizards were separated by their superiority, goblins by their greed, centaurs by their pride and many others. Maybe one day, someone may bring that peace back." His eyes dug into Harry's as he said so.

"My father and fore-fathers have recited me tales of that era. Amongst wizards who previously lived here, there were a couple, bound by love so pure and strong. My fore-father was allies with one of such pair, hundreds of year ago. The witch was a seer and asked my fore-father to tell this tale to their descendants, so as the time will come, we could relay it to the right person. The young couple was said to be bound by their soul, they called it Coniunctio. Such mates are very rare. There are many mates born but none of them have the power, purity and love enough to be bonded."

"Are you talking about, like soul bonds?" was the first thing Ginny blurt out as soon as regained her voice. "It's a myth, a story book tale."

"So is magic to muggles." Firenze countered immediately, but his voice held no heat. "It's not some love-at-first-sight fantasy tale. The couple didn't reveal much nor was my ancestor comfortable knowing about such intimate bond. They did say one thing, trust your mate. They are incomplete without each other, the pain of losing one's mate is worse than death. They are strongest with their mates and weakest without them."

"Firenze, why are you telling us about it?"

"I have said what I needed to. You have a long path in front, young ones. Even the brightness of Venus could not stop the glow of Mars. Be careful. I shall not remember this conversation as predicted by the seer."

"Wait. Please tell us more, help us."

"My work is done. Farewell, Harry Potter"

The walk back to the common room was exactly opposite to the one outside. It was uncomfortable, filled with tension. They knew they had to talk but didn't want to. Harry spoke the password and walked inside the deserted common room. Everyone was either outside, enjoying the weather or at Hogsmeade. Harry realized that he didn't even say bye to his friends. When he is with Ginny, he forgets everything else in the world. Not that he minded of course.

The thing that was worrying Harry was Ginny wasn't saying anything. Since they saw Firenze, she had neither uttered a word nor looked at him. This was turning him nervous, very nervous. At least a thousand 'what ifs' were forming in his mind? But one thing was sure, they needed to talk.

They both sat on the couch in front of the fireplace, hidden from the rest of the common room. Unable to bear the silence any more, he blurted out-

"Please say something."

Ginny looked at him, biting her lip. She briefly closed her eye and her face hardens in determination. Taking a deep breath, eyes at the fire, she started-

"Harry, I need to tell you something. Things I have never told anyone. So I need you to listen and please don't interrupt." At his nod, she continued, "You know I am from a big family, the seventh child, the first female born in seven generations. So, I was pampered, loved and cuddled by everyone. But that also sought out, the odd one. A girl rose between six boys. I never fit. When I was 7, Bill left home, for his curse-breaker training. He was my best friend and I felt so lonely. At the night, before he left, he read me a story; the story of the Boy-who-lived. I read it almost every night. No matter how tragic it was, it felt very enchanting. Sometimes I felt bad for him. Every time, after reading the story, I asked myself. Where would you be? Were you alive? One day I just asked Mum, but the twins and Ron heard me and started teasing me about having a crush on the Boy-who-lived."

She sighed. Harry can feel the emotion dripping from her words. He could imagine a smaller Ginny teased by her brothers, sitting alone in the garden.

"They were relentless. So I retaliated. I pranked Ron and the twins were to be punished. After the twins started Hogwarts, Ron and I grew closer. Mostly 'cause he realized he would be alone without me, so he stopped teasing me around. We swam in the pond, cleaned the gardens. For those 2 years, we made the connection; we never had for 8 years. I was delighted. When it was Ron's turn I was heartbroken. I would be alone with no brothers around. As much as prats they were, I missed them a lot. There was no one of my own age. At the station I saw you. With a trunk and an owl, it was obvious that you were a wizard. You were so polite, humble; I thought you were really cute."

She blushed and Harry's face heated too, though the monster in his stomach roared in delight. Honestly, he thought she was cute too, but didn't mention it.

"Then the twins told that it was you; Harry Potter, the Boy-who-lived. Losing all decorum, I just wanted to see you again. You were my fascination for 3 years. I had so many questions for you. Then the teasing restarted. But this time, I really had a crush. A crush on the brave and famous yet polite and nice boy, I met on the King's Cross station. Going home, I just waited for Ron's letters to tell me about the sorting, the castle, about you. I so hoped you to be friends with Ron. But Ron hardly wrote. First he wrote Mum on the 2nd week of September, about Hogwarts, sorting to Gryffindor and being friends with you. In a hasty p.s. he added tell Ginny I said hi."

She gave a short bitter laugh, voice choked with tears. But none falls out of her eyes. Harry wanted to do something, but resisted, not knowing what to do, he just listened.

"Then a letter after the Halloween accident, the 1st Quidditch match and before Christmas about the gifts. During the summer holidays after Hogwarts, I pestered Ron about you. At first he gave short answers but later he just avoided me. When the letters I wrote came back unread, I became frustrated and hurt. One time, I was nagging him a bit so he just snapped at me. After that I stopped talking to him. Suddenly, one day at breakfast you were on the table, smiling and greeting me. I was so startled that I squeaked and hid behind Mum. Then I heard twins and Ron telling you about me having a crush on you. I was so embarrassed that I had no idea how to look at you in the eye."

She took a deep breath. After the embarrassing part was over, now came the worst part, her first year.

"Coming to Hogwarts was the best experience. But I never had friend and didn't knew how to make one. Then the metaphor, 'diary is a girl's best friend' became true. Tom Riddle had to be the most attractive and charming person when he wanted to be. You couldn't help but feel comfortable around. He knew the perfect way of talking, the perfect lie to impress. He would keep me awake at night so that if he possessed me during daytime, he would just lie that I might have fallen asleep from my lack of sleep at tiredness turned into small blackouts for a few seconds, and slowly into an hour long. It took him almost 2 months for that. On 2 weeks before Halloween, he decided to test the control and started to make me kill Hagrid's roosters. And he succeeded. When there was some blood left on the uniform, he'd say the twins pranked me. During the time after New Year, the timings of my blackout and the attacks were too same to be a coincident. I tried to tear its pages, but it stuck itself. I threw it in fire, it was fire-proof. Getting desperate, I flashed it in the out-of-order girl's wash-room. Everything felt normal again. At the Valentine's Day, the twins thought it would be amusing to send you a card. I was mortified when Malfoy said it was from me, I swear I didn't. I knew from what Ron and twins told you, you will believe him. Then I saw the diary with you."

"I was so scared. What if it tells you everything? What if it wrote back and spills all my secrets? What if you tell others or Ron or her parents or the Headmaster? What if it tries to possess you too? Only one way was left to steal it back from you, the Diary, and the secrets. Tom wasn't happy, not that I cared at that moment. Apparently, you, Mr. Potter are more interesting than silly, crying, poor Ginny. As per punishment, Tom petrified Hermione, Ron's best friend and Penelope, Percy's girlfriend. Knowing that his charming words wouldn't word on me anymore, he showed me his real face. Even at 16, he was ... evil personified. He threatened me that he will make me kill my brothers and my parents. He taunted that none of my 4 brothers will ever notice if I vanish forever. He kept me conscious as I wrote the last message on the wall. And then, we were in the chambers. You just fought a 60 feet basilisk to save someone you didn't even know."

She wiped the tears pooling in her eyes. Harry knew the story doesn't end here, so just waited.

"The summer wasn't very cheerful. The day after…that incident I overheard my parents talking about homeschooling me. I couldn't let that happen. I couldn't let Tom win. Everyone was happy to pretend nothing happened. I had nightmares almost every night, waking the whole house with my screams. So I silenced my room so that no one will hear my screams and acted like the sweet, innocent girl I wasn't, not any more. Bill and Charlie really helped me. At Hogwarts, I did some management of misconducts of my previous year. I apologized to each of the petrified student, even Nick, Hagrid and Mrs. Norris. But somehow the word got out and no one wants to be friends with me or even look at me as if I am a basilisk. But I made some cool friends, who accept me after knowing everything. On weekends every month Professor McGonagall calls me to her office and we talk. The whispering and rumors are there, but I have learned to ignore them. Last night, I was just too frustrated and took George's broom for flying, when I saw you by Dementors and well you know the rest.

Harry, I told you everything. Nothing sweetened, nothing exaggerated because I wanted you to know me." Finally facing him, she said, "We both know what Firenze said, and why he did? It is crazy, even scary. It may have sounded like some fairy tale where you meet the right one and have some happy ending. I don't want you to be stuck with me, or live in some delusion of me being the girl who might have imagined for yourself. This is me, Ginevra Weasley. I am not some beautiful princess, Harry. I have seen you compromise; just take everything because you are just too darn noble. No matter what he said, you always have a choice; you don't have to just accept me just because some supernatural thing joined us. Whatever you decide will be fine by me."

Liar, liar, liar. It would break her heart completely and shatter her completely if he rejects her but she has to be sure that he wasn't just being a hero and did as was asked. A part of her begged every power existing, for him to accept her as herself. She wondered if this is what that seer witch meant.

Harry just stared at her, her green eyes piercing down her brown ones, unblinking. He had not said a word. As the seconds passed, Ginny's heart accelerated as fast as a unicorn. Finally, he said-

"I don't have a choice" and Ginny's heart shattered like glass. She closed her eyes, trying not to cry. His next words opened her eyes. "I don't want a choice. After hearing about you, I could not believe that such a wonderful girl will ever want to be with me. The more I come to know about you, the more my respect and admiration for you grew. Do not ever think that I would, that I could reject you."

Ginny felt a tear fall down at his words. She felt like the happiest girl in universe. The smile his words caused was simply radiant. He chose her. Ginny Weasley, not Ron's sister or some damsel in distress, or any other beautiful girls the castle is full of; but her. She couldn't describe the feeling that spread through her, but it felt good, really very good.

"But you need to know me too, the very way I did. I don't want you to think of me like some brave hero I am not." Ginny wanted to stop him, to tell him that she doesn't think of him as a celebrity. But she knew it was important for him to confess everything like she did.

"I don't remember my time with my parents at all. For as long as I remember, I have been with the Dursleys and they hate me. I do not want to waste my time with you talking about them; they are of no importance to me. They kept me in a cupboard; made me cook, gave me Dudley's hand-me-downs, and had me do unnecessary chores. They weren't abusive, but they didn't mind me getting hurt. Not all wounds are physical, you know. Dudley and his gang use to bully and hit me and made sure I never had any friends."

Ginny wanted to cry. How can anyone be so, so ...? urgh. There isn't even a word for those creatures. Then she wondered how can someone suffer this much and still be this noble and brave. Her awe and respect for Harry increased even more.

"A week before my 11th birthday, I got a letter for the first time. It was from Hogwarts which Uncle Vernon burned it before I could even open it. But more letters came. It felt so awesome. After being unloved and uncared for so long, someone was making this many efforts for me, it was a very good feeling. We shifted to a rock house in between of a sea for my birthday. Hagrid came, breaking the door I must add, and told me about the magical world and took me to Diagon Alley. He's my first friend and he bought me my first present, Hedwig. At Gringotts, I found out I am rich. I never 'saw' this much money before and I owned it. I got my wand which Mr. Ollivander told me is brother to Voldemort's wand since they share phoenix feathers from the same bird and I was supposed to do great things in my life.

At King Cross, I had no idea how to get to the platform, Hagrid again forgot, I'm glad he did. If I wouldn't have heard you and your Mum talking, I might have never gotten into the train. In the train, I made friends with Ron and enemy to Draco Malfoy. Then at the sorting, I almost had a heart attack when it suggested to put me Slytherin. I didn't want to be anywhere near Malfoy. Then at Halloween, the troll tried to attack Hermione in the lavatories, so Ron and I kind of saved her. We have been friends ever since. Because of a bad prank attempt from Malfoy, I got selected in the Quidditch team as the youngest seeker in a century. I was very touched when your mum sent me gifts. It was my best Christmas. Dumbledore gave me my father's invisibility cloak. With many assumptions and slips from Hagrid, Hermione found that there was Philosopher's stone, made by Nicolas Flamel and Dumbledore in the restricted area of the castle, and someone was trying to steal it for Voldemort. Ron and Hermione helped me to pass the hurdles placed by the teachers. It turned out to be Quirrell possessed by Voldemort. Because of a tricky puzzle from Dumbledore, he couldn't get it. Only the one to find it but not use it may retrieve the stone. Quirrell tried to kill me but just burned at my touch. Dumbledore explained my Mum invoked ancient magic when she sacrificed herself for me. Hagrid, as an apology for slipping to Quirrell, gave me an album of my parents' photographs"

Ginny listened to all this. She had, of course, heard about his first year in brief from Ron but as she heard Harry talk she couldn't believe how modest he was. He made each of his dangerous and life-threatening adventure sound like some boring history assignment. She swallowed her gasps at many places, not wanting to disturb him. It was easier if been told at once.

"The summer after was no fun. I never got any letters, had my things locked in the cupboard and Dobby, the house-elf, and threw cake on Uncle Vernon's client. That got me into a room arrest and was rescued by your brothers. On Sept. 1, the barrier locked itself when Ron and I tried to get through. So, we flew to Hogwarts in the flying car which crashed in the Whomping Willow and Ron's wand broke. That year I was haunted by Lockhart's advice for fame and the rumors of me being the Heir of Slytherin. Ron believed that Malfoy was the Heir, so Hermione made Polyjuice Potion and confronted Malfoy as Crabbe and Goyle. Then Hermione was petrified, and Hagrid was arrested. He said to follow the spiders, which we did and entered the lair of Aragog. Your dad's car saved us from there. From the page Hermione had torn, we found out the monster was a basilisk. But it was too late. You were taken into the chambers. We found Lockhart trying to run away after wiping our memories; but I took his wand. Inside the chamber, he grabbed Ron's broken wand and did the memory spell which back-fired. Then I got into the chambers, Fawkes helped me by blinding the basilisk and bringing the sword of Gryffindor. I stabbed the basilisk but got hurt. Fawkes healed me with his tears and handed me the diary, which I stabbed with the basilisk fang and Tom Riddle vanished. After that you know what happened."

Ginny barely concealed her winces. He suffered so much, because of her.

"During the summer, Uncle Vernon's fat sister came. I cut a deal with Uncle Vernon to have my Hogsmeade form signed if I behaved. But at the last day, she insulted my parents and I lost it. I blew her up and ran away to the Leaky Cauldron where Minister was waiting for me. The next 2 weeks in Diagon Alley were awesome. I was worried I'd empty my vault. Then Hermione and your family arrived. Hermione bought Crookshanks who was trying to kill Scabbers from the first sight. The night before train, I heard yours parents talking about Sirius Black coming after me. I told Ron and Hermione this at the train. When the Dementor attacked, I heard my mum and dad, screaming. During Divination, the professor predicted my death, seeing the Grim in my tea leaves. Ron and Hermione's fights grew vigor because of their pets. I took extra classes from Moony to repel Dementors and found that he was my dad's friend. Also I couldn't go to Hogsmeade as my uncle didn't sign the form, so the twins gave me a map of Hogwarts which helped me to sneak into Hogsmeade. I learned about Sirius being my godfather. At the last visit I almost got caught by Snape, and informed Moony who took the map away. During Christmas, I got an anomalous Firebolt. Hermione suspected it was from Sirius and told McGonagall who snatched it away for inspection. I got mad at Hermione. Then Crookshanks ate Scabbers and it looked like the end of Ron and Hermione's friendship. Yesterday at Bucbeak's appeal, we found Scabbers. And then you already know.

So this is the real Harry Potter. What do you think?" He ended in a teasing tone, but the nervousness was palpable.

Ginny smiled sweetly and replied," I think I like Harry Potter more than the Boy-who-lived." This seemed to be the correct thing to say, as he sighed like the weight of the whole world just lifted from his head. He stood up and did an exaggerated bow, kneels down and held his hand in front of her, his eyes mischievous and smiling.

"I don't know anything about being mates and I also understand we need some time with each other before we step into something we are not comfortable with. So till then, would you, Ginevra Weasley like to be my friend?" He asked the last part in a mock loud formal voice, which sounded like Percy's. She couldn't help but laugh, partly amused and partly relieved that he wanted things comfortable yet progressive between them.

"Yes, of course." She held his hand and slight warmth spread through her at his touch and she knew he felt it too. They looked at each other, smiling.

She didn't know about a happy ending but at that moment, everything was just perfect.

Suddenly Hedwig flew over to them with a bunch of letters. Harry freed the letters and recognized the symbol on the seal of the first letter.

It was from Gringotts.


Why would Gringotts send Harry a letter? Because of the bond or something else. Well you will have to see it yourself in the next chapter.

The re-editing is officially complete. The previous readers are requested to read the story and not skip parts thinking they already read it. How do you like the changes, please share.

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Next chapter:Find out the letter's contents, why Dumbledore preponed Hogsmeade weekend and who does Harry spends his summer.

Echo